Got a PSD Housing Letter in Illinois? Here's What to Do Next

Got a PSD Housing Letter in Illinois? Here's What to Do Next

So, you've received a PSD (Psychiatric Service Dog) housing letter in Illinois—first off, congratulations on taking an important step toward more secure and comfortable living. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, PTSD, depression, or another mental health challenge, a PSD can be a game-changer. But once that letter hits your inbox or mailbox, the big question becomes: what now?

Let’s walk through the key things you need to know to protect your rights and confidently navigate your housing situation, especially in the state of Illinois.

What is a PSD Housing Letter?

A PSD housing letter is a document issued by a licensed mental health professional that affirms your need for a psychiatric service dog as part of your ongoing care. It’s not just a piece of paper—it’s your legal backing under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), which ensures you can live with your service animal, even in properties with “no pet” policies.

But not all letters are created equal. It’s essential that your letter is recent, contains the appropriate legal language, and comes from a trusted source.

Housing Laws in Illinois

In Illinois, as in the rest of the U.S., landlords must comply with the FHA, which prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities, including those who rely on service animals. While Illinois is generally progressive in tenant protections, you may still run into landlords unfamiliar with the rules or hesitant to make exceptions.

That’s why your next steps matter. Having a solid letter is great—but knowing how to use it is even better.

Step 1: Review Your Letter

Make sure your letter clearly states:

• That you have a mental or emotional disability recognized under the FHA.

• That a psychiatric service dog is part of your treatment or supports your ability to live independently.

• That the letter is written and signed by a licensed mental health professional with appropriate credentials.

If you received your letter from PetCerts.com, you’re already a step ahead. Their team works exclusively with licensed professionals and understands the legal requirements of PSD documentation, ensuring everything is squared away from the start. Plus, their process is smooth, secure, and fully online—perfect if you value privacy and convenience.

Step 2: Notify Your Landlord

You don’t need to explain your diagnosis or get into personal details. Just provide your PSD housing letter and let your landlord know that you're making a formal accommodation request under the Fair Housing Act.

You can say something like:

“Hi, I’m submitting documentation from a licensed professional verifying my need for a psychiatric service dog as a reasonable accommodation under the Fair Housing Act. Please let me know if you need anything else to proceed.”

That’s it. Short and respectful.

Step 3: Know Your Rights

Here’s what landlords can’t do:

• Charge you pet fees or deposits.

• Demand detailed medical records.

• Refuse your request just because they have a “no pets” policy.

Here’s what they can do:

• Ask for verification in the form of a valid letter (which you have).

• Deny the request only if the animal poses a direct threat or causes significant property damage—not just because they don’t like dogs.

Again, if you’re using a letter from PetCerts.com, it’s designed with these legal standards in mind—making it easier to avoid unnecessary pushback.

Step 4: Keep a Copy On Hand

Always keep a digital and printed version of your letter. Whether you're applying to new housing or following up with a current landlord, having it accessible can save you time and stress.

Also worth noting: if your letter is more than a year old, it may be wise to refresh it. Housing providers tend to favor recent documentation, even if it's not strictly required.

Step 5: Be Confident

Navigating housing rules with a PSD can feel intimidating, but remember: you have the law on your side. The FHA is there to protect you, and resources like PetCerts.com make the process smoother from start to finish. You’ve already done the hard part by recognizing what you need—now it’s just a matter of standing by it.

Need help with a PSD letter or support for your housing journey?
PetCerts.com offers an easy, streamlined way to get the documentation you need from trusted licensed professionals. Whether you're in Chicago, Springfield, or anywhere in between, they've got your back.